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Abstract:
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The distribution and accumulation of trace
metals in the sediments of the Cochin estuary during
the pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon periods
were investigated. Sediment samples from 14 locations
were collected and analysed for the metal contents (Mg,
Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb), organic carbon,
total nitrogen, total sulphur and grain size. The data
were processed using statistical tools like correlation,
factor and cluster analysis. The study revealed an
enrichment of Cd and Zn in the study area particularly
at station 2, which is confirmed by enrichment factor,
contamination factor and geoaccumulation index. The
factor analysis revealed that the source of Cd and Zn
may be same. The study indicated that the spatial
variation for the metals like Mg, Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn,
Cd and Pb were predominant unlike Mn which shows a
temporal variation. The strong association of trace
metals with Fe and Mn hydroxides and oxides are
prominent along the Cochin estuary. The anthropogenic
inputs of industrial effluents mainly control the trace
metals enrichment in the Cochin estuary |